Why summer is the perfect time to work in early years and nursery settings

Summer is a good time to build experience, support children’s development, and take the next step in your early years' journey. For early years practitioners, teaching assistants, and anyone exploring a career in education, summer is an excellent time to gain experience, build confidence, and discover new opportunities. 

Working in early years during the summer offers steady demand, meaningful work, and the chance to build experience in a supportive environment. Whether you’re already working in education or looking to get started, there are opportunities to grow your skills and confidence.

Why do nurseries stay open during the summer? 

Unlike schools, most day nurseries operate 51 to 52 weeks a year. Nurseries do not follow school term dates, and many see more demand during July and August when families need extra childcare. With older siblings out of school, parents working through the summer often increase their childcare usage.

 Parents often keep their younger children enrolled throughout the summer to ensure they don’t lose their place for the autumn term and to prevent the disruption of settling back in after a summer break.

As permanent early years staff take their annual leave, this creates a need for temporary cover. 

This creates consistent opportunities for:

• Early years practitioners

• Nursery assistants

• Support staff

• People looking to gain hands‑on experience with younger children

• Educators looking for nursery jobs or temporary childcare roles during the school holidays.

If you enjoy working with under‑fives, summer is one of the best times to step in.

What does a nursery role involve day-to-day? 

Day-to-day responsibilities span structured play, safeguarding, personal care, and observing milestones in childhood development. Seasonal roles often include temporary nursery assistant or ‘bank staff’ positions. These include supervising play, helping with mealtimes, and assisting permanent staff.

Every nursery is different, but most summer roles include:

• Helping children with play, learning, and daily routines

• Helping with activities, from outdoor play to creative sessions

• Building positive relationships with children and families

• Working with permanent staff to maintain a calm, safe environment

• Assisting with mealtimes, personal care and transitions

It is practical, rewarding work where you can make a real difference to a child’s summer. You’ll also build relationships with children and families, while developing valuable communication and safeguarding skills. 

Who can work in a nursery during the summer? 

Summer early years roles are a strong fit for people who:

• Enjoy working with younger children

• Want flexible, steady work during the holidays

• Are exploring a long‑term career in early years

• Want to build confidence and experience in a supportive setting

• Prefer hands‑on, people‑focused work

They are also ideal for teaching assistants who want to stay active over the summer or gain experience in a different type of setting.

Do you need qualifications to work in a nursery?

Requirements vary between settings. Some roles specify recognised early years qualifications, while others offer opportunities for people looking to gain experience working with young children. Some nurseries offer entry‑level roles for people looking to gain experience in early years or explore summer nursery assistant jobs for the first time. Employers value enthusiasm, reliability and a genuine interest in assisting children's development.

What are the benefits of working in early years over the summer? 

Working in early years during the summer can help you:

• Build experience fast

• Strengthen your CV with early years skills

• Stay connected to education while schools are closed

• Earn a steady income during the school holidays

• Try out a new educational setting before committing long-term

• Gain experience of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

• Develop communication and safeguarding skills that are valued across all education settings

• Explore different nursery settings before committing to a permanent role or long‑term early years pathway

It is a positive, low‑pressure way to explore early years work and see if it’s right for you.

Where Teaching Personnel fits

We work with nurseries and early years settings across the country, helping them find reliable, caring staff throughout the summer. Our consultants understand what these roles involve and can match you with opportunities that suit your availability, experience, and goals.

Whether you are experienced in early years or getting started, we will help you at every step.

Ready to explore summer nursery roles?

Take a look at our latest nursery and early years vacancies or register with Teaching Personnel today. Our team can help you find flexible summer opportunities, whether you're an experienced practitioner or taking your first steps into an early years career.